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Best Winter Yellowtail (Bangeo) Restaurants in Seoul: 101 Do & Squid World Review

Winter in Korea means one thing for seafood lovers: Yellowtail (Bangeo) season! This oily, flavorful fish is at its peak during the colder months, and finding the perfect spot to enjoy it is a must for locals and visitors alike. While famous spots like Uri Badasusan are incredibly popular (and often come with long waits), there are fantastic alternatives that offer equally delicious Bangeo without the hassle. Today, I’m excited to introduce you to two such hidden gems in Seoul: 101 Do and Squid World (Ojingeo Sesang).

1. 101 Do: A Cost-Effective Yellowtail Paradise Near Junggok & Gunja Station

Located conveniently between Junggok Station and Gunja Station, 101 Do is known for its exceptional “Gashimbi” – a Korean term for “cost-effectiveness.” This restaurant offers high-quality raw fish and seafood at reasonable prices, making it a popular choice for those in the know.

I visited 101 Do on a weekday at 4:30 PM, just 30 minutes after their opening time, and was surprised to find the place already packed! The restaurant is divided into two sections: a preparation area where chefs expertly slice the fish and a dining area for customers.

Menu & Ambiance

Their menu boasts a variety of raw fish options like flounder and rockfish, alongside an impressive selection of seafood. However, the star of the show during winter is undoubtedly their Yellowtail (Bangeo) menu. We opted for the “Special” 50,000 KRW set for two people.

The basic side dishes were simple yet satisfying: fresh wraps, seasoned sushi rice, and warm Hwangtae (dried pollack) seaweed soup. The sushi rice, while basic on its own, was subtly seasoned to perfection, complementing the fish wonderfully. The warm soup was a comforting start to the meal, especially on a cold day.

The Star: Yellowtail (Bangeo) Sashimi

When the Yellowtail arrived, it was a feast for the eyes! All the prized cuts were beautifully arranged, showcasing the vibrant color and freshness of the fish. Considering the 50,000 KRW price tag, the quality and quantity were truly impressive. Having enjoyed Yellowtail directly from Uljin (a famous Yellowtail region in Korea), I can confidently say that 101 Do offers comparable quality at a fraction of the price.

I indulged in the melt-in-your-mouth belly cut first, savoring its rich, fatty flavor. The other cuts were equally delightful, and I enjoyed experimenting with different pairings: some with seaweed and radish sprouts dipped in sesame oil, others with sweet chili sauce. The seasoned sushi rice was so addictive that I even enjoyed it on its own before the fish arrived. Topped with a slice of Yellowtail, it transformed into exquisite Bangeo sushi.

Don’t miss their side menu! I ordered a side of Sea Urchin (Uni) for just 10,000 KRW (compared to 25,000 KRW for a full tray). The only minor downside was the absence of traditional Spicy Fish Stew (Maeuntang) when ordering Yellowtail. However, their Seafood Ramen alternative was a fantastic substitute, boasting a rich broth and generous portion size.

Location: Near Junggok Station & Gunja Station, Seoul
Rating: ★★★★☆ (Excellent, especially for value)

2. Squid World (Ojingeo Sesang): Unexpectedly Great Yellowtail Near Jamsilsaenae Station

Squid World (Ojingeo Sesang), located near Jamsilsaenae Station, might sound like it specializes solely in squid dishes (and it does!), but it’s also become known for its surprisingly excellent Yellowtail. The restaurant is much larger than it appears from the outside, spanning from the 2nd floor to the basement.

Like 101 Do, Squid World keeps prices affordable by minimizing elaborate side dishes. We ordered 60,000 KRW worth of Yellowtail for two people.

Yellowtail Quality & Service

The Yellowtail presentation was commendable, with a diverse selection of cuts served. The color was vibrant and appealing, enhancing the dining experience. Although sushi rice wasn’t initially provided, the owner kindly made some fresh sushi rice upon request, allowing us to enjoy Yellowtail sushi as well. We also ordered a side of Squid Sashimi, which was incredibly fresh and delicious, living up to the restaurant’s name.

While Squid World’s main draw is undoubtedly their steamed whole squid (which I plan to try on my next visit), their Yellowtail offering is a worthy contender, especially for those seeking a delicious and reasonably priced option near Jamsilsaenae Station.

Location: Jamsilsaenae Station, Seoul
Rating: ★★★★☆ (Great Yellowtail, good value)

Conclusion

Finding affordable and high-quality Yellowtail in Seoul can be challenging, especially during peak season. While famous restaurants are options, 101 Do and Squid World offer excellent alternatives with shorter wait times and comparable quality. If you’re craving delicious winter Yellowtail without breaking the bank or waiting in long queues, be sure to check out these hidden gems!